Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 revealed

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 revealed

Sherri Watson
|
13 November, 2017, 07:22

With a top speed quoted at "over 210 mph", they're not wrong.

The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will also feature magnetorheological shocks, electric variable-assist steering as well as 394-mm discs with six-piston callipers up front, 388-mm discs with four-piston pinchers at the rear. For the first time ever, the ZR1 will be available with an automatic transmission.

The engine, a gas-guzzling LT5 6.2-liter V8, uses an intercooled supercharger that pushes 52 percent more air than the one on the Z06 to smash out a brutal 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque (563 kW / 969 Nm). In fact, the car's new carbon fiber hood is open in the middle in order to clear the hardware.

Naturally, as a ZR1, it comes with a 7-speed manual gearbox, a nice one with Active Rev Match for downshifting.

The Corvette ZR1 introduced today also debuted a dynamic, available Sebring Orange Design Package. ZR1 buyers will be able to choose between two different aero packages that each offer different advantages. This upgrade installed racing-grade suspension, braking, and cooling components, along with a heavy-duty 4-speed manual transmission. Y'know, stuff like air conditioning and power windows. This engine is similar to the LT4 engine that is found in the Z06, but is now called the LT5, which harkens back to the C4 generation ZR-1. The sticker price was nearly $60,000, a fortune then.and now. And looking across its product portfolio, the only cars that really do the trick right now are its high-performance autos. According to Chevrolet, the 2019 Corvette ZR1 tips the scales at 3,524 lb. GM reckons a top speed of "over 338km/h" is possible in this configuration. The final edition of this version of the ZR1 rolled off the assembly line in 2013. Heated and vented Napa leather-trimmed seating is also available, as well as a carbon fiber-rimmed steering wheel, competition sport seats, Performance Data Recorder, Bose premium audio system and more.

Chevrolet wants the Corvette to become a global flagship for the brand, in the same way the Ford Mustang expanded beyond North America with its most recent model. And two rear wing styles are available, each tied directly to the car's chassis as in the Corvette C7.R racing auto.

Not enough? Opt for the High Wing, a towering two-way adjustable unit that helps generate around 60% more downforce compared to the Z06 with the already pretty serious Z07 Performance Package. Further, the ZR1 elevates Corvette's track capability with two wind tunnel-honed aerodynamics packages, including an available High Wing that provides an estimated 950 pounds of downforce.

The High Wing is part of the ZTK Performance Package, which also throws in a giant front splitter with carbon fibre end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres and specific tuning for the chassis and Magnetic Ride Control dampers, delivering greater cornering grip. Tires will be sized P285/30ZR19 up front and P335/25ZR20 in back.

Speaking of options, Chevrolet will offer a Sebring Orange Design Package that includes a Sebring Orange exterior with orange brake calipers and orange accents.

The ZR1's LT5 6.2L V-8 engine advances Corvette's supercharging legacy, which began with the 2009 sixth-generation ZR1 and continued with the 2015 seventh-generation Z06.